Which Refrigerant (“Freon”) a 2016 Honda Civic Uses

Most 2016 Honda Civic models in the U.S. and Canada use R-1234yf refrigerant; verify on your car’s under‑hood A/C label to be certain for your exact trim and market. The term “Freon” is a common shorthand for refrigerant, but modern vehicles like the 2016 Civic typically use R‑1234yf (also called HFO‑1234yf), not older types such as R‑134a or R‑12. Because specifications can vary by market and submodel, the factory label on your vehicle is the authoritative source.

What Honda Specified for the 2016 Civic

By the 2016 model year, Honda had broadly moved the Civic’s air‑conditioning system to R‑1234yf in North America to align with environmental regulations and industry trends. R‑1234yf has a far lower global‑warming potential than R‑134a and uses unique service fittings to prevent cross‑contamination.

U.S. and Canada

For U.S. and Canadian 2016 Civics (sedan and coupe), the factory‑specified refrigerant is generally R‑1234yf. This applies across the common engines (2.0L naturally aspirated and 1.5L turbo) introduced with the 10th‑generation Civic in 2016.

Other Markets

Outside North America, some 2016 Civics may still be equipped with R‑134a depending on local regulations and production timing. Always verify using the A/C system label or owner’s manual specific to your country and trim.

How to Confirm on Your Car

You can quickly confirm the correct refrigerant and the precise system charge by checking the factory A/C label on your vehicle. Follow these steps to locate and read it accurately.

• Open the hood and look for a rectangular A/C specification label. Common locations include the underside of the hood, the radiator support, or near the condenser/fan shroud.
• Read the refrigerant type line; it will explicitly say “R‑1234yf” or “R‑134a.” The label also references SAE J639 (the automotive A/C standard).
• Note the specified charge amount, listed in grams and often pounds (for example, a figure roughly in the 420–500 g range for many Civics).
• Check the specified compressor oil type. For R‑1234yf systems, Honda typically specifies a PAG oil formulated for R‑1234yf (often labeled ND‑OIL 12); always use exactly what the label/manual states.
• Confirm the service port fittings: R‑1234yf uses different, incompatible quick‑connect fittings compared with R‑134a, which helps prevent mistakes.

If the label indicates R‑1234yf, do not substitute R‑134a (or vice versa). The label is the final word for your specific vehicle’s configuration.

Charge Quantity and Oil Type

While the exact numbers vary by trim and market, many 2016 Civics specify approximately 430–500 g (about 0.95–1.10 lb) of R‑1234yf. Honda typically calls for a dedicated R‑1234yf PAG compressor oil (commonly referred to as ND‑OIL 12), but you must use only the oil type and quantity shown on your car’s label or in the service manual. Over‑ or under‑filling refrigerant or using the wrong oil can reduce cooling performance and may damage the compressor.

R‑1234yf vs. R‑134a: What to Know

If you’re trying to distinguish between R‑1234yf and R‑134a systems or considering service options, keep these practical differences in mind.

• Fittings: R‑1234yf has unique service port sizes; R‑134a tools won’t fit.
• Environmental impact: R‑1234yf has a much lower global‑warming potential than R‑134a.
• Flammability: R‑1234yf is mildly flammable (A2L). Handle away from sparks/open flames.
• Equipment: Proper recovery/recharge requires R‑1234yf‑compatible service machines.
• Cost: R‑1234yf refrigerant and service are typically more expensive than R‑134a.

These differences mean you should never mix refrigerants or attempt to retrofit without a documented, legal, and complete conversion—something generally not recommended for a 2016 Civic already designed for R‑1234yf.

Service and Safety Guidance

If your A/C isn’t cooling or you plan maintenance, follow best practices to protect the system and ensure proper performance.

• Confirm the refrigerant type and charge/oil specifications from the under‑hood label.
• Avoid top‑off-by-pressure methods; the correct way is evacuation and recharge by weight.
• Use only R‑1234yf‑compatible equipment and oil if your car is R‑1234yf.
• Do not mix refrigerants; cross‑contamination can damage components and is illegal in many regions.
• Observe safety precautions: work in a well‑ventilated area, wear eye/hand protection, and keep ignition sources away due to R‑1234yf’s mild flammability.
• In the U.S., professional A/C service requires EPA Section 609 certification; many shops also must use certified recovery/recycling equipment.

Following these steps helps ensure the system is serviced correctly, maintains efficiency, and avoids costly repairs.

Bottom Line

Your 2016 Honda Civic most likely uses R‑1234yf refrigerant, especially in the U.S. and Canada. Check the A/C label under the hood for the definitive answer and the exact charge and oil specifications. Use only the listed refrigerant and oil, and have the system serviced with the correct equipment to protect performance and reliability.

Summary

For a 2016 Honda Civic, the factory‑specified refrigerant in North America is generally R‑1234yf. Always confirm with the under‑hood A/C label, which lists the refrigerant type, charge quantity, and compressor oil spec. Do not mix refrigerants, and service the system using R‑1234yf‑compatible tools and procedures for safe, effective operation.

How much is the AC recharge on a 2016 Honda Civic?

The average cost for a Honda Civic AC Recharge is between $234 and $314 but can vary from car to car.

What type of freon does a 2016 have?

R134a Freon: Vehicles Manufactured Between 1995 and 2021.

What kind of freon goes in a Honda Civic?

This car may use either R-134a or R-1234yf depending on the model year and trim, so check your under-hood label before selecting the product. Either way, a proper recharge with Honda Civic refrigerant can get you back to driving in comfort, and AutoZone has the right options online and in-store.

What freon is in a 2016 Honda Civic?

And my guess is because that they were designed for the old refrigerant R134a. Instead of the new refrigerant r1234 YF. So I just wanted to say before we get started with the refilling. That if you